Shower assembly with radial mode changer

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

0001This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/097,069, filed Sep. 15, 2008, and entitled “Shower Assembly with Radial Mode Changer,” which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

0002The technology disclosed herein relates to shower assemblies having several different spray modes.

BACKGROUND

0003Multi-function shower heads have a plurality of spray modes, including various standard sprays and pulsed sprays. Typically, the spray mode is selected using a control ring positioned around the circumference of the shower head, and moveable with respect to the shower head. The ring is rotated around the shower head to select the desired spray mode. Several problems result from such shower heads. For example, adjusting the control ring structure often requires the user to handle the control ring across the face of the shower head, thereby interfering with the flow from the shower head and producing undesired splashing. Using the control ring may also cause the orientation of the spray head to be adjusted inadvertently. Additionally, such shower heads require that the shape of the shower head be substantially round, and limit the amount of surface area available on the shower head for spray nozzles

0004Accordingly, a multi-function shower head having a convenient mechanism for selecting spray modes may be provided to address these deficiencies. In addition, a multi-function shower head may allow for flexibility in styling and/or shaping of the shower head. Further, a multi-function shower head may provide an increased surface area available for spray nozzles relative to other shower heads having the same or similar diameter or surface area.

SUMMARY

0005According to one embodiment, a shower assembly for expelling water is configured with a plurality of spray modes. The shower assembly includes a housing having a water inflow and a water outflow. The shower assembly also includes a manifold defining a cavity having a sidewall. One or more mode apertures are formed or disposed in the sidewall of the cavity, correspond to one of a plurality of spray modes and are in fluid communication with the water outflow. The shower assembly further includes a radial mode changer defining a hollow passageway in fluid communication with the inlet flow path, and further defining a plurality of recessed ports in fluid communication with the hollow passageway. The radial mode changer is rotatably received in the cavity of the manifold such that the radial mode changer may be rotated relative to the manifold to align at least one of the recessed ports with at least one of the mode apertures such that water may flow from the water inflow to the water outflow via the radial mode changer. Thus, different spray modes of the shower assembly may be selected via rotation of the radial mode changer, which receives and directs water flow from a position behind spray passageways from which the water flows out of the shower assembly.

0006In another embodiment, a radial mode engine is provided for expelling water using a plurality of spray modes. The radial mode engine includes a front channel plate having a manifold formed by an annular wall with a number of mode apertures defined in the annular wall. A number of partitions extend from an exterior of the annular wall and define at least two channels, which each correspond to one of the plurality of spray modes. The mode apertures provide fluid communication between the manifold and the at least two channels, and the channels provide a water outflow of the corresponding spray mode. A rear channel plate couples to the front channel plate and encloses the at least two channels to form at least two chambers. A radial mode changer is received in the annular wall and is formed as cylindrical body, which defines a hollow passageway in fluid communication with a water inflow and defines one or more recessed ports in fluid communication with the hollow passageway. When the radial mode changer is rotated relative to the manifold to align one of the recessed ports with one of the mode apertures, water from the water inflow flows through the radial mode changer into one of the chambers to provide water outflow of the corresponding mode. When the radial mode changer is again rotated relative to the manifold, the one or more of the recessed ports aligns with two of the mode apertures such that water from the water inflow flows through the radial mode changer into two of the chambers to provide water outflow of the two corresponding modes.

0007In yet another embodiment, a radial mode changer is provided for receiving water inflow and directing water to a spray mode chamber of a showerhead having a plurality of spray mode chambers. The radial mode changer includes a cylindrical body formed of a first cylinder and a second cylinder, which is integrally formed with and concentrically arranged around the first cylinder. The second cylinder is sized with a height that is less than a height of the first cylinder. The first cylinder forms a top recessed portion relative to the second cylinder and the first cylinder forms a hollow passageway for receiving water inflow from the top. The second cylinder includes a first and a second annular recessed port extending radially into the cylindrical body from a side of the second cylinder transverse to the top recessed portion. The first and second recessed ports are fluidly connected to the hollow passageway to form a fluid passageway.

0008These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein it is shown and described illustrative implementations, including best modes contemplated. As it will be realized, modifications in various obvious aspects may be made, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0009<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> provides an isometric, cross-sectional view of an exemplary shower assembly according to certain embodiments.

0010<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-F</figref> depict an isometric view, a bottom plan view, a first side elevation view, a second side elevation view, and vertical and horizontal cross-sectional views as indicated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2D</figref>, respectively, of an embodiment of the radial mode changer provided according to certain implementations.

0011<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2G-I</figref> depict a isometric views, with <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2H and 2I</figref> being exploded views, of another embodiment of a radial mode changer according to alternative implementations.

0012<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2J</figref> depicts a cross-section view of a radial mode changer according to a further alternative implementation.

0013<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-E</figref> depict an isometric view, a top plan view, a right side elevation view, a bottom plan view, and a vertical cross-sectional view as indicated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3D</figref>, respectively, of a front channel plate provided according to certain embodiments.

0014<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3F</figref> depicts an isometric view of another front channel plate provided according to certain embodiments.

0015<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A-E</figref> depict an isometric view, a top plan view, a left side elevation view, a bottom plan view, and a vertical cross-sectional view as indicated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4D</figref>, respectively, of a rear channel plate provided according to certain embodiments.

0016<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4F</figref> depicts an isometric view of another rear channel plate provided according to certain embodiments.

0017<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A-B</figref> depict exploded isometric views of the radial mode changer and front and rear channel plates.

0018<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5C</figref> depicts an isometric view of an assembly of a front channel plate, a radial mode changer, and a transparent rear channel plate.

0019<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5D</figref> is a detailed cross-sectional view of a radial mode changer arranged in a section of the interior of the channel plates and coupled to a knob at the exterior of the front channel plate.

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-H</figref> are a series of horizontal cross-sectional views of a radial mode changer arranged in a section of the front channel plate at various positions relative to the manifold of the front channel plate corresponding to different spray modes or combinations of spray modes.

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a cross-section view of a radial mode changer arranged in a section of the front channel plate according to an alternative embodiment.

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref> is a top plan view of a front channel plate according to certain embodiments.

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8B</figref> is a bottom plan view of a radial mode changer according to certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0024A spray controller for providing several different spray modes of standard sprays and pulsed sprays, alone or in combination, to a shower assembly, e.g., a showerhead, a shower bracket for a hand shower, a diverter valve, a shower arm, or other shower combinations, is provided. Various aspects of this technology are described below with reference to the accompanying figures.

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> depicts an isometric cross-sectional view of a shower assembly <b>100</b> that includes radial mode changer <b>101</b> for providing spray control. Shower assembly <b>100</b>, in addition to radial mode changer <b>101</b>, includes housing <b>120</b> with water inflow <b>130</b> for receiving water from a water source, water outflow <b>140</b>, front channel plate <b>150</b>, rear channel plate <b>160</b>, and chambers <b>170</b> defined by the interior wall of front and rear channel plates <b>150</b>, <b>160</b>.

0026According to certain embodiments, radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be an arrangement of two concentric cylinders with an inner cylinder defining an opening at a top, which is connected to the water inlet for receiving water from a water source via water inflow <b>130</b>. Two seals of different sizes defining recessed ports may be funnel shaped and widen from the opening defined in the cylinder and terminate at a side of the cylinder. The fluid passageway defined through the top and side of the concentric cylinders results in water received in the inner cylinder being redirected transverse from the direction the water was received. The water stream entering radial mode changer <b>101</b> may optionally be split into two or more paths via the seals, which deliver the stream or streams of water to water outflow <b>140</b>, where the water exits the shower assembly via one or more spray modes determined by the configuration of interior chamber <b>170</b> and the mode selected by a user operating radial mode changer <b>101</b>.

0027Housing <b>120</b> is configured to enclose radial mode changer <b>101</b>, and may include an exterior with top surface <b>122</b> and bottom surface <b>124</b>. According to certain implementations, mode changer knob <b>126</b> may extend from the external bottom surface <b>124</b> of housing <b>120</b> and couple to radial mode changer <b>101</b>, such that rotation of knob <b>126</b> slaves and effects rotation of radial mode changer <b>101</b>, and causes radial mode changer <b>101</b> to move among and between one or more spray modes. Operating radial mode changer <b>101</b> may thus be simplified because, for example, rotation of changer knob <b>126</b> coupled to a radial mode changer <b>101</b> is used to effect mode change as opposed to rotation of a component surrounding the entire circumference of the showerhead.

0028Water inflow <b>130</b>, for delivering water to radial mode changer <b>101</b>, may be configured as handle <b>131</b> with a hollow tubular interior formed by housing <b>120</b>. Handle <b>131</b> may be coupled to a water source (not shown) by a threaded engagement via threading <b>132</b> at receiving end <b>133</b> of handle <b>131</b>. Water inflow <b>130</b> may terminate proximate inflow passageway <b>134</b>, e.g., at or in inflow passageway <b>134</b>, defined by a cylindrical wall sized and shaped to complement or couple to a top portion of radial mode changer <b>101</b>. According to the embodiment depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, inflow passageway <b>134</b> extends axially relative to radial mode changer <b>101</b>, and inflow passageway <b>134</b> is configured as a tubular member that may be sealingly coupled around the exterior walls of radial mode changer <b>101</b>. The cylindrical walls of inflow passageway <b>134</b> may at least partially, and closely, receive a top portion of radial mode changer <b>101</b>. Configurations of water inflow <b>130</b> other than a handle may include conduits leading to inflow passageways formed by showerheads, shower brackets for hand showers, diverter valves, and other showerhead combinations, which may complement or may be configured to feed into the radial mode changer <b>101</b>.

0029Water outflow <b>140</b> is an arrangement of a series of spray nozzles from which water exits the shower assembly <b>100</b>. As water exits radial mode changer <b>101</b> and passes through front channel plate <b>150</b> and rear channel plate <b>160</b>, the water is delivered from shower assembly <b>100</b> via water outflow <b>140</b>. Water outflow <b>140</b> may include nozzles <b>141</b> and apertures <b>142</b> extending below bottom surface <b>124</b> of housing <b>120</b>. According to certain implementations, nozzles <b>141</b> and apertures <b>142</b> may be associated with or integral to front channel plate <b>150</b>.

0030According to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, front channel plate <b>150</b> may be configured with manifold <b>151</b> arranged between water inflow <b>130</b> and water outflow <b>140</b>, so that manifold <b>151</b> is arranged behind an area from which water exits the shower assembly <b>100</b>. That is, manifold <b>151</b> is positioned at a first end of front channel plate <b>150</b>, while the channels defined by partitions <b>156</b> extend or radiate from an outer wall of manifold <b>151</b> towards a second end of the front channel plate <b>150</b>. Manifold <b>151</b> is cylindrically sized and shaped such that cylindrical radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be at least partially seated in an interior or a cavity of manifold <b>151</b>. Manifold <b>151</b> may include an annular wall extending from a top surface of the front channel plate <b>150</b> arranged axially relative to radial mode changer <b>101</b>. A tubular cavity defined by the annular wall of manifold <b>151</b> includes mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, and <b>154</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A</figref>, <b>3</b>F, <b>5</b>A-<b>5</b>C, and <b>6</b>A-<b>6</b>H) defined by vertically-oriented, annular-shaped walls forming openings arranged in the annular wall of manifold <b>151</b>. Water exiting radial mode changer <b>101</b> passes through one or more mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, and <b>154</b> (each corresponding to an independent spray mode), into channels defined by sidewalls or partitions <b>156</b> in order to deliver water to the water outflow <b>140</b>.

0031Rear channel plate <b>160</b>, according to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, includes a first surface <b>161</b> for affixing to housing <b>120</b> of shower assembly <b>100</b>, and a second surface <b>162</b> configured with a number of vertically arranged sidewalls or partitions <b>166</b> sized and shaped to couple with sidewalls or partitions <b>156</b> from front channel plate <b>150</b> to form continuous chamber walls.

0032Accordingly, one or more chambers <b>170</b> may be formed by coupling sidewalls or partitions <b>156</b>, <b>166</b> of front channel plate <b>150</b> and rear channel plate <b>160</b>. Chambers <b>170</b> may be sealed with respect to one another and receive water flow from radial mode changer <b>101</b>. As water flows into one or more sealed chambers <b>170</b>, the water is forced through the flow paths formed by the chambers, and exits the output apertures and nozzles configured for a desired spray mode. It will be understood that chambers <b>170</b> may be formed by walls of the front and/or rear channel plate <b>150</b>, <b>160</b> and may include sealing structures, for example O-rings, polymeric seals, portions of the channel plate that mate with another channel plate or other structure that include complementary protruding and recessed structures, or recessed structures configured to receive O-rings or polymeric seals, so as to provide a seal between multiple chambers <b>170</b> and between the chambers <b>170</b> and other portions of shower assembly <b>100</b>.

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2F</figref> provide an isometric view, a bottom plan view, a first side elevation view, a second side elevation view, a vertical cross-section view (taken along line <b>2</b>E-<b>2</b>E in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2D</figref>) and a horizontal cross-section view (taken along line <b>2</b>F-<b>2</b>F in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2D</figref>), respectively, of the radial mode changer <b>101</b>, according to certain embodiments.

0034According to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2F</figref>, radial mode changer <b>101</b> is configured as a generally cylindrical structure of two concentric cylinders, and includes top recessed portion <b>102</b> and bottom recessed portion <b>104</b> together forming an inner cylinder, which is separated by body portion <b>106</b> forming an outer cylinder. First open end <b>108</b> defines an entrance to first hollow passageway <b>110</b> through the top recessed portion <b>102</b> of the inner cylinder and second open end <b>111</b> defines an entrance to second hollow passageway <b>112</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>) through the bottom recessed portion <b>104</b>, a first recessed port <b>113</b> and second recessed port <b>114</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2F</figref>) defined in the body portion <b>106</b> and fluidly coupled to first hollow passageway <b>110</b>, cut-out <b>115</b> defined in the body portion <b>106</b>, and slot <b>116</b> defined in the bottom recessed portion <b>104</b>.

0035The top recessed portion <b>102</b>, bottom recessed portion <b>104</b>, and body portion <b>106</b> of radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be configured so that each portion may sit in or receive a component of shower assembly <b>100</b>. According to certain implementations, the body portion <b>106</b> is assembled in manifold <b>151</b>. Such an arrangement provides for the outer wall of body portion <b>106</b> to sealingly engage with the inner wall of manifold <b>151</b>. In this arrangement, at least a portion of top recessed portion <b>102</b> extends beyond the annular walls of manifold <b>151</b> for receiving inflow passageway <b>134</b>. Bottom recessed portion <b>104</b> may be sized and shaped to extend through and out of front channel plate <b>150</b> at an opening <b>1511</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3E</figref>) defined by manifold <b>151</b> for receiving a control knob <b>126</b>. It will be understood that one or more portions of radial mode changer <b>101</b> in addition to body portion <b>106</b> may also sealingly engage with the various components of the shower assembly <b>100</b>.

0036First open end <b>108</b> at top recessed portion <b>102</b> may also extend above manifold <b>151</b>. In this configuration, top recessed portion <b>102</b>, at or near first open end <b>108</b>, may include one or more sections that are recessed radially such that one or more annular ridges <b>117</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2D</figref>) extend circumferentially about the top recessed portion <b>102</b>. The annular ridges <b>117</b> may be configured to accommodate an O-ring <b>200</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2J</figref>) or a lip seal <b>201</b> with V-shaped annular groove <b>202</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2E</figref>) between annular ridges <b>117</b>. This allows the top recessed portion <b>102</b> to sealingly couple to inflow passageway <b>134</b>.

0037First hollow passageway <b>110</b> arranged at first open end <b>108</b> is formed in an inner cylinder of the two concentric cylinders and extends axially into the body portion <b>106</b>. First hollow passageway <b>110</b> is configured to receive water from inflow passageway <b>134</b> and to be fluidly coupled to recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> defined in the body portion <b>106</b>. The interconnection between first hollow passageway <b>110</b> and recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> fluidly couples water inflow <b>130</b> to water outflow <b>140</b>.

0038Second open end <b>111</b> defines an entrance to second hollow passageway <b>112</b>, which extends axially into bottom recessed portion <b>104</b>, but terminates before meeting first hollow passageway <b>110</b>. The second open end <b>111</b> extends out of the front channel plate <b>150</b> via the opening <b>1511</b> defined by manifold <b>151</b>. By way of slot <b>116</b>, the second open end <b>111</b> may engagingly couple with a mode changer knob <b>126</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 5D</figref>) extending from the external bottom surface <b>124</b> of the housing <b>120</b>. Accordingly, rotation of the knob <b>126</b> effects rotation of the radial mode changer <b>101</b> and causes the radial mode changer <b>101</b> move among and between one or more spray modes. In order to provide a sealing engagement between bottom recessed portion and the opening <b>1511</b>, a lip seal <b>204</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2J</figref>) may be provided around a circumference of the bottom recessed portion <b>104</b> where manifold <b>151</b> receives the bottom recessed portion <b>104</b>. The arrangement of lip seal <b>204</b> adjacent to the second open end may prevent water from entering the shower assembly from the area of the knob <b>126</b>.

0039In some embodiments, recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> may be formed in the body portion <b>106</b> as a cut-out or concave portion defined by walls the body portion <b>106</b> and may be radially recessed up to the first hollow passageway <b>110</b>. Recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> may extend axially along all or a portion of the length of the main body portion <b>106</b>, and may extend longitudinally around a portion of the circumference of the main body portion <b>106</b>. In certain implementations, first recessed port <b>113</b> may extend around the circumference of the body portion <b>106</b> a distance greater or less than the distance in which second recessed port <b>114</b> extends around the body portion <b>106</b>. As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2F</figref>, first recessed port <b>113</b> extends around the circumference of body portion <b>106</b> a greater distance than second recessed port <b>114</b>. In another embodiment, first and second recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> may extend circumferentially about the body portion <b>106</b> about the same distance. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>, first and second recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> may be elliptical. First and second recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> may be configured with a shape for facilitating delivery of water to chambers <b>170</b>. For example, the fluid path between first hollow passageway <b>110</b> and first and second recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> may expand as it travels radially outward such that the path is generally funnel-shaped. This funnel shape may facilitate directing the water to the apertures in manifold <b>151</b>. In certain implementations, a number of recessed ports, such as three or more recessed ports, may be defined in body portion <b>106</b>. According to further embodiments, and as described in the embodiments below, recessed ports may include sealing components to form one or more tightly fitted fluid connections between the radial mode changer and the manifold <b>151</b>.

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2G-I</figref> depict several isometric views of another embodiment of a radial mode changer <b>1001</b>, which provide sealing features between the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> and the shower assembly. According to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2G-I</figref>, radial mode changer <b>1001</b> includes a first seal cup <b>1020</b> and a second seal cup <b>1030</b> received, respectively, in a first concave recessed port <b>1002</b> and a second concave recessed port <b>1003</b> of radial mode changer <b>1001</b>. In some embodiments, the first and second seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> may have sides and rear faces sized and shaped to be sealingly accommodated in first recessed port <b>1002</b> and second recessed port <b>1003</b> surrounding annular openings <b>1013</b>, <b>1014</b> formed in hollow passageway <b>1010</b> for providing a fluid connection to the seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> from hollow passageway <b>1010</b>. A front face may be sized and shaped to sealingly fit in manifold <b>151</b> when radial mode changer <b>1001</b> is arranged in a shower assembly.

0041Seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> may include an exit aperture configured to serve as a water conduit between the body of radial mode changer <b>1001</b> and one manifold mode aperture, e.g., mode aperture <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, or <b>154</b> (See <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3F</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6H</figref>). Accordingly, the seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> may be sized and shaped to complement the size and shape of the mode aperture. For example, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2G-I</figref>, seal cup <b>1030</b> defines exit aperture <b>1031</b>, which serves to deliver water from the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> to one mode aperture, and is sized and shaped to feed directly to a single mode aperture. Where the seal cup is configured to serve as a conduit between the body of radial mode changer <b>1001</b> and one or more mode apertures, e.g., mode aperture <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, or <b>154</b>, or mode apertures <b>152</b> and <b>153</b>, or <b>152</b> and <b>154</b>, or <b>153</b> and <b>154</b>, or <b>152</b>, <b>153</b> and <b>154</b>, the seal cup exit aperture may define an elongate opening and be supported by a rib so that the aperture feeds to one or multiple mode apertures. Thus, for example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2G-I</figref>, seal cup <b>1020</b> defines exit aperture <b>1021</b> separated by a vertical rib <b>1023</b> to provide support to the seal cup <b>1020</b>. Exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b> may generally funnel-shaped for facilitating directing water to the apertures in manifold <b>151</b>.

0042In certain implementations, apertures may be arranged about the perimeter of radial mode changer <b>1001</b> at the same height, while in other implementations, apertures may be staggered vertically around the perimeter of radial mode changer <b>1001</b>. In addition, one, two, three, four or more exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b> may be defined in the outer surfaces of the first and second seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b>. As will be discussed in greater detail below, exit aperture <b>1021</b> and/or exit aperture <b>1031</b> are fluidly connected to hollow passageway <b>1010</b> and may be utilized simultaneously or individually to deliver water to the water outflow <b>140</b>.

0043In addition, first and second seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> may be used to form a water-tight seal between the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> and an inner wall of the manifold <b>151</b> such that water may be expelled from radial mode changer <b>1001</b> when one or more mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b> is at least partially aligned with one or more exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b>. Generally, seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> may be formed from a pliable, non-porous material, such as for example, rubber or plastic.

0044According to certain embodiments, radial mode changer <b>101</b>/<b>1001</b> may include a first open end defining an entrance to first hollow passageway <b>110</b>/<b>1010</b> for enabling water to flow from water inflow <b>130</b> into sealed chambers <b>170</b> via the mode changer <b>101</b>/<b>1001</b>. In this regard, in certain embodiments, water may flow into the radial mode changer <b>101</b>/<b>1001</b> in a direction that is transverse to the direction in which water is expelled from radial mode changer <b>101</b>/<b>1001</b>. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, water may flow into radial mode changer <b>101</b> axially, e.g., vertically, and may flow out of radial mode changer <b>101</b> radially, e.g., horizontally, relative to the rotational axis of the radial mode changer. Additionally, in some implementations, water may be expelled from radial mode changer <b>101</b>/<b>1001</b> in a direction that is transverse to the direction in which water is expelled from the shower assembly <b>100</b> water outflow <b>140</b>. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, water may be expelled from the mode changer <b>101</b> substantially horizontally, and may exit the shower assembly <b>100</b> vertically. Alternatively, the direction water is expelled from the radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be at a desired angle relative to the direction in which water is expelled from the shower assembly <b>100</b>.

0045Radial mode changer <b>101</b>/<b>1001</b> may be fabricated using any suitable manufacturing methods including: molding, over-molding, injection molding, reaction injection molding, machining, pressing and punching. Additionally, radial mode changer <b>101</b>/<b>1001</b> may be constructed of materials including metal, plastic, rubber, or combinations and variations thereof.

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3E</figref> provide isometric, top, side, bottom and horizontal cross-sectional (along line <b>3</b>E-<b>3</b>E in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3D</figref>) views, respectively, of front channel plate <b>150</b>, according to some embodiments, with radial mode changer <b>101</b> having been removed from the manifold <b>151</b>. Front channel plate <b>150</b> may have an elliptical outer profile such as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3D</figref>. Alternatively, front channel plate <b>150</b> may be configured with a circular, rectangular, polygonal, or other suitable shape. Manifold <b>151</b> includes port holes configured as mode apertures <b>152</b> (see FIG.), <b>153</b> and <b>154</b>. According to some implementations, mode apertures may be aligned horizontally or may be staggered vertically around manifold <b>151</b>. In addition, although mode apertures are depicted as annular openings, mode apertures may be formed into a variety of shapes, e.g., oval shaped, a narrow band, a grouping of openings associated with one channel, and each aperture may be of a different type or shape from the other. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3F</figref> illustrates horizontal ribs <b>155</b> extending across each mode aperture for providing support to cup seals <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> as the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> rotates through the modes in order to prevent cross mode leakage.

0047Returning to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3B</figref>, the top surface of the front channel plate <b>150</b> may form a plurality of channels formed by partitions <b>156</b> to direct water received from three mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b> and <b>154</b>, via radial mode changer <b>101</b>, to the appropriate spray mode apertures as selected by a user. Channels <b>157</b>, <b>158</b> and <b>159</b> may be defined by walls or partitions <b>156</b> extending from the top side of the front channel plate <b>150</b>. As will be described below, complementary walls extending from the bottom side of rear channel plate <b>160</b> may sealingly mate with the walls of front channel plate <b>150</b> to form chambers <b>170</b>.

0048According to certain embodiments, a first, innermost channel <b>157</b> may be circular in shape and define a portion of the pulsating spray chamber. A second, middle channel <b>158</b> may concentrically surround a majority of first channel <b>157</b> and at least partially define a hard spray chamber. A plurality of hard spray apertures may be formed in second channel <b>158</b>, each hard spray aperture having a similar diameter. Flow from radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be expelled into the second channel <b>158</b> to actuate the hard spray mode. A third, outermost channel <b>159</b> may concentrically surround a majority of second channel <b>158</b> and at least partially define an outer spray chamber. A plurality of outer spray apertures may be formed in third channel <b>159</b>, each outer spray aperture having a similar diameter. Flow from radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be expelled into third channel <b>158</b> to actuate the outer spray mode.

0049While the present disclosure describes three concentrically arranged channels having a number of outlet apertures formed therein, it should be appreciated that a number of channels having various orientations and numbers of outlet apertures may be employed without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

0050<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A-4E</figref> provide isometric, top plan, side elevation, bottom plan and vertical cross-sectional (taken along line <b>4</b>E-<b>4</b>E in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4D</figref>) views, respectively, of rear channel plate <b>160</b>, according to certain embodiments. Rear channel plate <b>160</b> may have a shape that is generally complementary to the shape of the front channel plate <b>150</b>, i.e., the front channel plate <b>150</b> and the rear channel plate <b>160</b> have the same or similar circumferential shape. On a top surface <b>161</b> of the rear channel plate <b>160</b>, a plurality of spaced attachment protrusions <b>167</b> may extend in the direction of the housing <b>120</b>, when assembled. Attachment protrusions <b>167</b> may mate with complementary members of the housing <b>120</b> to stabilize the assembly of the front channel plate <b>150</b> and rear channel plate <b>160</b> within the interior of the shower assembly <b>100</b>. In addition, one or more snaps <b>163</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4F</figref>) may be provided at a recessed portion <b>169</b> of a ramped region <b>168</b> to provide a flexible snap connection for mating rear channel plate <b>160</b> with the shower assembly housing <b>120</b>, for example.

0051With respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4D</figref>, a bottom view of the rear channel plate <b>160</b> is shown and as previously discussed, second surface <b>162</b> of rear channel plate <b>160</b> may be configured with a number of vertically arranged partitions <b>166</b> sized and shaped to be complementary with partitions <b>156</b> from front channel plate <b>150</b>. Accordingly, partitions <b>166</b> may protrude from the second surface <b>162</b> to define channel walls corresponding to the channel walls provided in front channel plate <b>150</b>. In the assembled shower assembly <b>100</b>, the partitions <b>166</b> of the rear channel plate <b>160</b> sealingly mate with the partitions <b>156</b> of the front channel plate <b>150</b> to form chambers <b>170</b>, which are sealed with respect to one another.

0052A ramped region <b>168</b> with a recessed portion <b>169</b> may be provided in a portion of the periphery of the rear channel plate <b>160</b>. The ramped region <b>168</b> may correspond with a portion of the front channel plate <b>150</b> adjacent to manifold <b>151</b> in the area of the mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b> and <b>154</b>. In the assembled shower assembly, the recessed portion <b>169</b> may leave radial mode changer <b>101</b> exposed in order to enable radial mode changer <b>101</b> to form a seal with inflow passageway <b>134</b>.

0053<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A-B</figref> depict exploded isometric views of a radial mode engine <b>500</b> including a front channel plate <b>150</b>, rear channel plate <b>160</b>, and radial mode changer <b>101</b>. Radial mode engine <b>500</b> provides a compartmentalized assembly enabling shower mode selection in an area behind the water outflow, and may be configured for use in a variety of shower assemblies, in addition to shower assembly <b>100</b>. Radial mode engine may have a variety of configurations. For example, although front channel plate <b>150</b> in radial mode engine <b>500</b> provides manifold <b>151</b> and apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b> and <b>154</b>, it will be understood that portions of the manifold may be constructed from rear channel plate <b>160</b> or another structure configured to receive at least a portion of radial mode changer and to engage with the front and or rear channel plate. In addition, manifold <b>151</b> for seating radial mode changer <b>101</b>, may be constructed separately from front and rear channel plate and may sealingly engage with portions of front and/or rear channel plate.

0054<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5C</figref> provides an isometric top side view of the radial mode changer <b>101</b> seated in manifold <b>151</b> in a perpendicular fashion relative to the direction of water spray. The manifold <b>151</b> may extend from a top surface of the front channel plate <b>150</b>, be arranged axially relative to the orientation of the radial mode changer <b>101</b>, and define a tubular cavity, which at least partially receives the mode changer <b>101</b>. However, it will be understood that the manifold <b>151</b> and the radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be arranged at a desired angle relative to the direction of water spray, and as a result, the manifold <b>151</b> may extend from the top surface of the front channel plate at a right angle or at a desired angle.

0055A plurality of mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A-3F</figref> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A-5D</figref>) may be formed in a sidewall of the tubular recess of manifold <b>151</b> adjacent channels <b>157</b>, <b>158</b>, <b>159</b>. Depending on the orientation of the mode changer <b>101</b> (i.e., the rotational position a user selects), the mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b> may align with one or more recessed ports <b>113</b>, <b>114</b> or apertures of the mode changer <b>101</b> to actuate different spray modes. As will be described in more detail below, more than one spray mode may be actuated at a time. In one embodiment, manifold <b>151</b> may have a single mode aperture <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b>, which corresponds to each of the channels <b>157</b>, <b>158</b>, <b>159</b> that form chambers <b>170</b> due to rear channel plate <b>160</b> enclosing the channels to form the three chambers. That is, flow from one of the mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b> supplies flow to one of the three chambers associated with an independent spray mode, e.g., a hard spray, a pulse spray or an outer spray mode. Alternatively, a plurality of mode apertures may correspond to one or more of the chambers.

0056As depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5D</figref>, top recessed portion <b>102</b> of radial mode changer <b>101</b> may be sized and shaped relative to the inflow passageway <b>134</b> of water inflow <b>130</b>, such that inflow passageway <b>134</b> may receive at least a portion of the top recessed portion <b>102</b>. Thus, according to certain embodiments, a sealed connection may be established between the top recessed portion <b>102</b> and inflow passageway <b>134</b>. In addition or alternatively, to establish a sealed connection between the inflow passageway <b>134</b> and mode changer <b>101</b>, O-ring <b>200</b> may be seated between the annular ridges <b>117</b> such that when the mode changer <b>101</b> is received by the inflow passageway <b>134</b>, at least a portion of the inflow passageway <b>134</b> sealingly abuts the O-ring <b>200</b>. According to alternative implementations, the sealed connection between the inflow passageway <b>134</b> and top recessed portion <b>102</b> may be formed by a lip seal having a V-shaped annular groove formed in a top surface of the lip seal extending circumferentially.

0057With further reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5C-D</figref>, when the radial mode changer <b>101</b> is assembled in manifold <b>151</b>, an arrangement of three concentric cylinders is provided in which the outer cylinder of radial mode changer <b>101</b> forming body portion <b>106</b> is surrounded by an inner cylinder wall of manifold <b>151</b> at least along a portion of the height of body portion <b>106</b>. Such an arrangement provides for the outer wall of body portion <b>106</b> to sealingly engage with the inner wall of manifold <b>151</b>. In addition in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5D</figref>, radial mode changer further includes seal cup <b>1030</b>, which also provides a sealing engagement between the radial mode changer <b>101</b> and the inner wall of manifold <b>151</b>.

0058<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-H</figref> provide a top cross-sectional view of a portion of the front channel plate <b>150</b> and the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> seated in manifold <b>151</b>. In some embodiments, radial mode changer <b>1001</b> may be positioned within the cavity of the manifold <b>151</b> such that the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> may rotate relative to the manifold <b>151</b>. As shown, mode changer <b>1001</b> may define a plurality of flow paths for diverting flow to a desired spray mode upon rotation of radial mode changer <b>1001</b> for alignment of one or both flow paths <b>1110</b>, <b>1210</b> with one more mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b> and/or <b>154</b>. Spray modes may be selected because first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> of mode changer <b>1001</b> terminates in flow paths <b>1110</b>, <b>1210</b>, each in fluid communication with at least one of the annular openings <b>1013</b>, <b>1014</b> of the first and second recessed ports <b>1002</b>, <b>1003</b>. In this manner, flow from first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> may be channeled into one or more of the chambers <b>157</b>, <b>158</b>, <b>159</b>.

0059As shown, a first flow path <b>1110</b> may provide flow through annular opening <b>1014</b> to seal cup <b>1030</b> accommodated in recessed port <b>1003</b> surrounding the annular opening <b>1014</b>. Similarly, a second flow path <b>1210</b> may provide flow to annular opening <b>1013</b> so that water flows through seal cup <b>1020</b> accommodated in the recessed port <b>1002</b> surrounding the annular opening <b>1013</b>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-H</figref>, the outer surfaces of the seal cups <b>1020</b>, <b>1030</b> may be contoured to seal against the inner wall of the manifold <b>151</b> such that water is expelled from the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> when one or more of the exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b> are at least partially aligned with one or more of the mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b>.

0060In an alternative embodiment, shower assembly <b>100</b> may be configured to secure radial mode changer <b>1001</b> against rotation. In this embodiment, for example, rotation of other components of the shower assembly <b>100</b>, such as the housing <b>120</b> and/or manifold <b>151</b>, may be rotatable relative to the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> in order to align mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b> with exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b>.

0061<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6B-6H</figref> provide views similar to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6A</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> having been rotated to various positions relative to the manifold <b>151</b> corresponding to seven different spray modes including three independent modes, three combination modes and a pause mode. The orientation of exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b> may be configured such that flow at a given time may be provided to each spray mode individually, or any combination of two spray modes.

0062Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6B</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> has been rotated such that exit aperture <b>1021</b> is at least partially aligned with mode aperture <b>154</b>, corresponding to the hard spray chamber <b>158</b>. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> may be directed to the hard spray chamber <b>158</b> and spray may emerge from the nozzles arranged in the hard spray chamber <b>158</b>.

0063In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6C</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> has been rotated for alignment of exit aperture <b>1031</b> with mode aperture <b>152</b> corresponding to the outer spray chamber <b>159</b>. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> may be directed to the outer spray chamber <b>159</b> and spray may emerge from the nozzles arranged on the outer area of the shower head in fluid connection with the outer spray chamber <b>159</b>.

0064Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6D</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> is rotated for exit aperture <b>1031</b> to align with the mode aperture <b>153</b> corresponding to the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b>. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> may be directed to the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b> and pulsed spray may emerge from the apertures formed in the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b>.

0065In some embodiments, radial mode changer <b>1001</b>, and specifically, exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b> may be configured such that one mode is always at least partially selected allowing for a reduced amount of flow from a spray chamber. Such a configuration aims to prevent “dead-heading” of water flow in the radial mode changer <b>1001</b>. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6E</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> has been rotated so the shower assembly <b>100</b> is in a pause spray mode. In one embodiment, in the pause spray mode, the exit aperture <b>1021</b> may be partially aligned with mode aperture <b>154</b>. Alternatively, in the pause spray mode, either of the exit apertures <b>1021</b>, <b>1031</b> may be partially aligned with any of the mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b> and/or <b>154</b>.

0066In some embodiments, radial mode changer <b>1001</b> may be configured so that flow at a given time may be provided to a combination of two or more spray modes. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6F</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> has been rotated such that exit aperture <b>1021</b> is at least partially aligned with mode aperture <b>152</b>, corresponding to the outer spray chamber <b>159</b>, and exit aperture <b>1031</b> is at least partially aligned with mode aperture <b>154</b>, corresponding to the hard spray chamber <b>158</b>. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> is split via mode changer <b>1001</b> into two paths and is directed to both of the outer spray chamber <b>159</b> and the hard spray chamber <b>158</b>. In use, spray may thus emerge from the nozzles formed in the hard spray and outer spray chambers <b>158</b>, <b>159</b>.

0067Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6G</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> has been rotated for partial alignment of exit aperture <b>1021</b> with mode apertures <b>152</b> and <b>153</b>, respectively, corresponding to the outer spray chamber <b>159</b> and pulse spray chamber <b>157</b>. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> is split via mode apertures <b>153</b> and <b>152</b> as the flow from exit aperture <b>1021</b> is directed to both the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b> and the outer spray chamber <b>159</b>, respectively. Accordingly, in use, spray emerges from the nozzles formed in the pulse spray and outer spray chambers <b>157</b>, <b>159</b>.

0068Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6H</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>1001</b> is rotated to partially align exit aperture <b>1021</b> with mode apertures <b>154</b>, <b>153</b>, corresponding to the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b> and hard spray chamber <b>158</b>, respectively. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway <b>1010</b> emerging from exit aperture <b>1021</b> is split via mode apertures <b>153</b> and <b>154</b> and is directed to both the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b> and hard spray chamber <b>158</b>, respectively, and spray emerges from the nozzles corresponding to the pulse spray and outer spray chambers <b>157</b>, <b>158</b>.

0069<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> provides a view of an alternative radial mode changer <b>701</b> that may be incorporated into the shower assembly <b>100</b> according to the present disclosure. As illustrated, radial mode changer <b>701</b> is configured similarly to those of previous embodiments. In contrast, however, a recessed port <b>702</b> extends circumferentially around radial mode changer <b>701</b> a greater distance relative to previous embodiments, and has a seal cup <b>720</b> accommodated therein. Seal cup <b>720</b> may be provided with one or multiple exit apertures for providing flow to each of the mode apertures of the manifold. In the embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, the radial mode changer <b>701</b> may be configured such that in at least one orientation of the mode changer <b>701</b>, flow is provided to each of the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b>, hard spray chamber <b>158</b>, and outer spray chamber <b>159</b>. For example, in one orientation, each of the exit apertures <b>721</b>, <b>722</b>, <b>723</b> may be at least partially aligned with mode apertures <b>152</b>, <b>153</b>, <b>154</b>, corresponding to the hard spray chamber <b>157</b>, pulse spray chamber <b>158</b>, and outer spray chamber <b>159</b>, respectively. Thus, flow from the first hollow passageway <b>710</b> may be directed to each the pulse spray chamber <b>157</b>, hard spray chamber <b>158</b>, and outer spray chamber <b>159</b> and spray may emerge from the nozzles formed in the chambers <b>157</b>, <b>158</b> and <b>159</b>. Upon rotation of the radial mode chamber <b>701</b>, two modes may be selected, e.g., outer spray and pulse modes may be engaged when radial mode changer <b>701</b> is rotated counterclockwise, or hard and pulse modes may be engaged when radial mode changer <b>701</b> is rotated clockwise. Alternatively, one mode may be selected upon rotation of radial mode chamber <b>701</b> further in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to align with a single mode aperture so that either hard or outer spray modes may be singly provided.

0070In some embodiments, rotation of mode changer knob <b>126</b> to effect a change in spray mode is accompanied by tactile indication to a user that a desired spray mode has been achieved. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8A and 8B</figref>, the front channel plate <b>800</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref>) may be provided with a plurality of indentations or holes <b>810</b> on annular rim <b>820</b>, while radial mode changer <b>801</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8B</figref>) is configured with a passage defined by a protruding annular lip <b>830</b> arranged in a bottom surface of the body portion <b>804</b>. When radial mode changer <b>801</b> is seated on annular rim <b>820</b> in the assembled shower assembly, as the mode changer knob (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) coupled to radial mode changer <b>801</b> is turned, the annular lip <b>830</b> drops into a hole <b>810</b> providing the user with a tactile indication that the radial mode changer <b>801</b> has changed position. In some embodiments, the indicator arrangement of holes <b>810</b> in annular rim <b>820</b> and annular lip <b>830</b> of radial mode changer <b>801</b> may provide tactile indications that correspond to the exit apertures of the radial mode changer <b>801</b> being aligned with one or more mode apertures. Thus, when one of the holes <b>810</b> receives annular lip <b>830</b>, a predetermined spray mode, such as for example one of the spray modes described in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6G</figref>, may be established, as indicated by a tactile pause or bump in rotational motion during mode selection.

0071In use, the various configurations of the radial mode changer, along with the mode changer knob provide advantages that allow a user to select the desired spray mode without having to grasp around the entire perimeter of the shower assembly, which may possibly accidentally adjust the angle or direction the shower assembly is pointing. Additionally, while using a shower assembly configured according to certain embodiments, a user's hand may be less likely to interfere with the spray while adjusting the spray mode via the mode changer knob arranged behind the outflow nozzles, thus avoiding undesired splashing. In addition, because the perimeter of the shower assembly from which water exits need not be rotated to select the spray mode, the configuration of the area from which water outflow is provided is not limited to rotatable designs.

0072While embodiments are described in the context of a hand-held shower assembly, it will be appreciated that the embodiments may be incorporated into a variety of shower assemblies. For example, a radial mode changer and its associated components may be incorporated into a wall-mount shower head. The wall mount shower head may function similarly to the hand-held shower assembly, except that a wall-protruding water pipe may be coupled to a threaded water inflow assembly.

0073Shower assemblies, and the components thereof, may be fabricated using any suitable manufacturing methods including, without limitation, molding, injection molding, reaction injection molding, machining, pressing and punching. Additionally, components forming shower assemblies may be constructed of materials such as for example, metal, plastic, rubber, or combinations and variations thereof.

0074From the above description and drawings, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the particular embodiments shown and described are for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. References to details of particular embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.